LUCKNOW, March 20 -- Even as the peak dengue season is yet to begin, the city has so far reported 24 dengue cases since January, prompting health authorities to step up vigilance. Officials, however, have termed the rise an off-season occurrence, noting that the favourable period for dengue transmission typically begins in April and continues till October. Confirming it, Ritu Srivastava, district malaria officer, said the situation remains under control with all reported patients stable and recovering at home. She emphasised that the prevailing weather conditions are not conducive for the breeding and survival of the mosquito responsible for spreading dengue.htc...